Easy-Set Pin Drive Expansion Anchor – Simpson Strong-Tie

Simpson Strong-Tie sells the Easy-Set Pin Drive expansion anchor, which is a concrete anchor. Different manufacturers sell the same type of product under various names, such as Strike Anchor or All-American Anchor. The Easy-Set anchor is designed for use in solid concrete or block that is grout filled. It should be considered for medium to heavy-duty type of applications. This anchor is only produced in carbon steel that is coated with a yellow zinc dichromate; are not manufactured in stainless steel.

NomenclatureSimpson Strong-Tie nomenclature for the Easy-Set anchor always starts with EZAC, and the first number represents the anchor’s diameter while the second number shows its length. The diameter refers to the thread diameter. The length is an overall length measured end to end.

Diameters AvailableThe Easy-Set anchor comes in six diameters: 1/4”, 5/16”, 3/8”, 1/2”, 5/8” and 3/4”. Each diameter is designated by the thread diameter. The threads are all national coarse threads. The thread length varies depending on the length of the anchor.

Length (in.)

Thread Length (in.)

1-3/4

5/8

2-3/8

3/4 or 1

2-3/4

1

3-1/2

1-1/8

4

1-5/8

4-3/4

1-1/2 or 1-5/8

5

2

6

2

MaterialsThe anchor body is made from hot-rolled steel and the pin is made from hot-wrought carbon steel.

Embedment DepthEach diameter of anchor must be installed in the concrete to a minimum depth to ensure minimum holding values. The different length of anchors used with different thicknesses of items being attached. An embedment deeper than minimum embedment may increase holding values.

Diameter of Anchor (in.)

Minimum Embedment Depth (in.)

1/4

1-1/8

5/16

1-1/2

3/8

1-3/4

1/2

2-1/2

5/8

3

3/4

3-3/4

Edge and Spacing RequirementsThe minimum distance that the anchors are spaced from one another and the distance between an anchor and an unsupported edge of concrete is called the critical spacing and critical edge distance. The distance is measured from center circle to center circle for spacing, and center circle to the edge of concrete for edge distance; each diameter has different requirements.

Diameter of Anchor (in.)

Critical Spacing (in.)

Critical Edge (in.)

1/4

3-1/2

1-3/4

5/16

4-1/2

2-1/4

3/8

5-1/4

2-3/4

1/2

6-3/4

3-3/8

5/8

9

4-1/4

3/4

10-1/2

5-1/4

Thickness of the ConcreteThe concrete must be a minimum of 1-1/2 times the embedment depth to achieve minimum holding values. For example, the concrete must be 2-1/4” thick for an anchor embedded in the concrete 1-1/2 inches.

Holding ValuesThe anchor has been tested for both shear and tension (pull-out) in normal-weight concrete at minimum embedment depths for each diameter. The figures below are allowable loads based on a safety factor of 4. Shear and tension loads for this anchor may be determined by using straight line interpolation.

Anchor Diameter(in.)

Shear (lbs.)

Tension (lbs.)

1/4

250

190

5/16

330

530

3/8

645

630

1/2

1230

1005

5/8

1325

1515

3/4

1750

1615

Installation

Using a carbide tipped drill bit the same diameter as the anchor being installed, drill the hole with the drill set in the hammer and rotation mode. Drill the hole deep enough to ensure minimum embedment depth, plus 1/4” to allow for pin extension.

Blow out the hole of all dust, for overhead application the hole does not have to be blown out.

Place and position the nut on the threaded end of the anchor to ensure required embedment depth.

Insert anchor through the fixture and into the predrilled hole in the concrete.

Strike the center pit with a hammer until the bottom of the head is flush with the top surface of the anchor.

As with any anchoring project, it is important to keep safety in mind and follow instructions carefully. Always remember to wear safety goggles, handle all tools with extra care and follow all technical specifications. This article is meant to serve only as a basic explanation of concrete fasteners. Always refer to manufacturer's instructions or consult a contracting expert during any anchoring project.

Concrete Fasteners, Inc. has over 40 years of experience selling concrete fasteners. We can ship out one box or a whole pallet of concrete anchors. Our products are of the highest quality... "your satisfaction is guaranteed". We ship all orders the same day the order is received.